This is one of the most common questions that is asked at our office and unfortunately, it does not have a simple answer. Just as every patient is unique, so is their treatment plan. Some patients have very simple problems which require less adjustments and time, while other cases are much more complicated and may require multiple visits. The treatment fee usually reflects the amount of orthodontic work required to complete the treatment plan. The only way to find out how much braces will cost is to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. McSurdy. During your consultation visit, we will perform a complete oral examination, listen to your concerns and explain how we will address your needs. Our presentation that day will include treatment options and payment plan offerings to suit your needs. Give us a call today at Collegeville or Gilbertsville 484-945-0336 and let us answer any questions or…
Brace Yourself Blog
What to do if you have an orthodontic emergency while on vacation
Categories: Brace Yourself Blog
If anything should arise while you are on vacation always remember that we are here for you whether you are in town or out of town on vacation. Just simply give us a call and we may be able to address the problem over the phone. Second, if we are unable to help you fix the problem over the phone, we will help you with some home remedies. Third, if a serious situation we could help you find an orthodontist that is in your area. If you experience problems reaching our office, we suggest going online and searching for orthodontic practices in your area. Most orthodontists will lend a helping hand to another orthodontic patient and get them out of pain or discomfort. If you have braces, we suggest steering clear of the following foods to avoid broken brackets and/or wire distortion while you are on vacation: Chewy, sticky, or…
What is Onychophagia?
Categories: Brace Yourself Blog
I think I just won the spelling bee! Better known as fingernail biting, it can be damaging to your teeth and gums. Tooth wear, enamel chipping and cracking, is most often the result of nail biting. In our practice, we have also witnessed extreme cases of gum recessions – especially when the patient has a bonded lingual retainer on the lower front teeth. Nail biting can tip the crown back and the root forward exposing the root to the tooth. This can lead to the need for gum grafting and six months of orthodontics to reposition the root. Jaw problems can also be a result of nail biting. The Academy of General Dentistry determined that it costs patients around $4,000 extra to repair damages from nail biting. The most common treatment is to use a nail polish (that tastes terrible) for a while to help break the habit. Denatonium benzoate…
New Product — Air Floss
Categories: Brace Yourself Blog
Every little but helps and it is very time consuming to floss with braces on. I have received great feedback from hygienist of referring dentists, so I purchased an air floss unit for myself. After one week of use, I give it an enthusiastic thumbs up! Technique is important and the tip should be aimed directly between the teeth and gum line. I use mouthwash rather than water and peroxide can be substituted as well. You can purchase the Sonicare Air Floss online at sonicare.com or Amazon. If you go on Sonicare.com they are offering a coupon for $15 off http://philips.to/U7mPDL. It is definitely worth the investment. Especially if you or your child have braces. Dr. David McSurdy
Stay in Shape — Defend Your Skin
Categories: Brace Yourself Blog
Has anybody here seen my metabolism? Can you tell me where it’s gone? LOL, but its true. I have to work out for an hour at least four time per week and eat at least four salads per week, or I begin to gain weight and lose muscle mass and tone. But, I am thankful that I can defend myself with exercise and diet. Unfortunately, for your skin, there are no exercises. Skin loses collagen and moisture easily, then sags and wrinkles as we age. Recently, my friend and colleague Donna DeLeo introduced me to a topical cream which dramatically improved my tone and greatly reduced my wrinkles facially. The results within three weeks of applying Nerium night and day cream are nothing short of astonishing. Check out these before and after pictures and see if you agree! I am so impressed that I signed on as a distributor and…